EP2008041A1 - Eisherstellungsvorrichtung für kühlschrank - Google Patents

Eisherstellungsvorrichtung für kühlschrank

Info

Publication number
EP2008041A1
EP2008041A1 EP07746057A EP07746057A EP2008041A1 EP 2008041 A1 EP2008041 A1 EP 2008041A1 EP 07746057 A EP07746057 A EP 07746057A EP 07746057 A EP07746057 A EP 07746057A EP 2008041 A1 EP2008041 A1 EP 2008041A1
Authority
EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
ice
cold air
backside
ice maker
door
Prior art date
Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
Granted
Application number
EP07746057A
Other languages
English (en)
French (fr)
Other versions
EP2008041A4 (de
EP2008041B1 (de
Inventor
Bon-Young Koo
Jong-Gon Kim
Oh-Chul Kwon
Yoo-Min Park
Myung-Soo Kim
Young-Hoon Gwak
Hyeon-Po Cho
Current Assignee (The listed assignees may be inaccurate. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation or warranty as to the accuracy of the list.)
LG Electronics Inc
Original Assignee
LG Electronics Inc
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Family has litigation
First worldwide family litigation filed litigation Critical https://patents.darts-ip.com/?family=38609735&utm_source=google_patent&utm_medium=platform_link&utm_campaign=public_patent_search&patent=EP2008041(A1) "Global patent litigation dataset” by Darts-ip is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License.
Priority claimed from KR1020060035110A external-priority patent/KR101192340B1/ko
Priority claimed from KR1020060035107A external-priority patent/KR100953973B1/ko
Priority claimed from KR1020060035122A external-priority patent/KR100953972B1/ko
Priority to EP22210402.8A priority Critical patent/EP4177551A1/de
Priority to EP14170942.8A priority patent/EP2775237B1/de
Priority to EP20206670.0A priority patent/EP3828483B1/de
Priority to EP19170986.4A priority patent/EP3546856A1/de
Application filed by LG Electronics Inc filed Critical LG Electronics Inc
Priority to EP17178527.2A priority patent/EP3290832B1/de
Priority to EP16191906.3A priority patent/EP3153798B1/de
Publication of EP2008041A1 publication Critical patent/EP2008041A1/de
Publication of EP2008041A4 publication Critical patent/EP2008041A4/de
Publication of EP2008041B1 publication Critical patent/EP2008041B1/de
Application granted granted Critical
Active legal-status Critical Current
Anticipated expiration legal-status Critical

Links

Classifications

    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F25—REFRIGERATION OR COOLING; COMBINED HEATING AND REFRIGERATION SYSTEMS; HEAT PUMP SYSTEMS; MANUFACTURE OR STORAGE OF ICE; LIQUEFACTION SOLIDIFICATION OF GASES
    • F25C—PRODUCING, WORKING OR HANDLING ICE
    • F25C5/00—Working or handling ice
    • F25C5/20—Distributing ice
    • F25C5/22—Distributing ice particularly adapted for household refrigerators
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F25—REFRIGERATION OR COOLING; COMBINED HEATING AND REFRIGERATION SYSTEMS; HEAT PUMP SYSTEMS; MANUFACTURE OR STORAGE OF ICE; LIQUEFACTION SOLIDIFICATION OF GASES
    • F25D—REFRIGERATORS; COLD ROOMS; ICE-BOXES; COOLING OR FREEZING APPARATUS NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • F25D23/00—General constructional features
    • F25D23/02—Doors; Covers
    • F25D23/04—Doors; Covers with special compartments, e.g. butter conditioners
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F25—REFRIGERATION OR COOLING; COMBINED HEATING AND REFRIGERATION SYSTEMS; HEAT PUMP SYSTEMS; MANUFACTURE OR STORAGE OF ICE; LIQUEFACTION SOLIDIFICATION OF GASES
    • F25C—PRODUCING, WORKING OR HANDLING ICE
    • F25C5/00—Working or handling ice
    • F25C5/02—Apparatus for disintegrating, removing or harvesting ice
    • F25C5/04—Apparatus for disintegrating, removing or harvesting ice without the use of saws
    • F25C5/046—Ice-crusher machines
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F25—REFRIGERATION OR COOLING; COMBINED HEATING AND REFRIGERATION SYSTEMS; HEAT PUMP SYSTEMS; MANUFACTURE OR STORAGE OF ICE; LIQUEFACTION SOLIDIFICATION OF GASES
    • F25D—REFRIGERATORS; COLD ROOMS; ICE-BOXES; COOLING OR FREEZING APPARATUS NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • F25D23/00—General constructional features
    • F25D23/12—Arrangements of compartments additional to cooling compartments; Combinations of refrigerators with other equipment, e.g. stove
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F25—REFRIGERATION OR COOLING; COMBINED HEATING AND REFRIGERATION SYSTEMS; HEAT PUMP SYSTEMS; MANUFACTURE OR STORAGE OF ICE; LIQUEFACTION SOLIDIFICATION OF GASES
    • F25D—REFRIGERATORS; COLD ROOMS; ICE-BOXES; COOLING OR FREEZING APPARATUS NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • F25D2317/00—Details or arrangements for circulating cooling fluids; Details or arrangements for circulating gas, e.g. air, within refrigerated spaces, not provided for in other groups of this subclass
    • F25D2317/06—Details or arrangements for circulating cooling fluids; Details or arrangements for circulating gas, e.g. air, within refrigerated spaces, not provided for in other groups of this subclass with forced air circulation
    • F25D2317/061—Details or arrangements for circulating cooling fluids; Details or arrangements for circulating gas, e.g. air, within refrigerated spaces, not provided for in other groups of this subclass with forced air circulation through special compartments
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F25—REFRIGERATION OR COOLING; COMBINED HEATING AND REFRIGERATION SYSTEMS; HEAT PUMP SYSTEMS; MANUFACTURE OR STORAGE OF ICE; LIQUEFACTION SOLIDIFICATION OF GASES
    • F25D—REFRIGERATORS; COLD ROOMS; ICE-BOXES; COOLING OR FREEZING APPARATUS NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • F25D2317/00—Details or arrangements for circulating cooling fluids; Details or arrangements for circulating gas, e.g. air, within refrigerated spaces, not provided for in other groups of this subclass
    • F25D2317/06—Details or arrangements for circulating cooling fluids; Details or arrangements for circulating gas, e.g. air, within refrigerated spaces, not provided for in other groups of this subclass with forced air circulation
    • F25D2317/062—Details or arrangements for circulating cooling fluids; Details or arrangements for circulating gas, e.g. air, within refrigerated spaces, not provided for in other groups of this subclass with forced air circulation along the inside of doors
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F25—REFRIGERATION OR COOLING; COMBINED HEATING AND REFRIGERATION SYSTEMS; HEAT PUMP SYSTEMS; MANUFACTURE OR STORAGE OF ICE; LIQUEFACTION SOLIDIFICATION OF GASES
    • F25D—REFRIGERATORS; COLD ROOMS; ICE-BOXES; COOLING OR FREEZING APPARATUS NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • F25D2317/00—Details or arrangements for circulating cooling fluids; Details or arrangements for circulating gas, e.g. air, within refrigerated spaces, not provided for in other groups of this subclass
    • F25D2317/06—Details or arrangements for circulating cooling fluids; Details or arrangements for circulating gas, e.g. air, within refrigerated spaces, not provided for in other groups of this subclass with forced air circulation
    • F25D2317/066—Details or arrangements for circulating cooling fluids; Details or arrangements for circulating gas, e.g. air, within refrigerated spaces, not provided for in other groups of this subclass with forced air circulation characterised by the air supply
    • F25D2317/0665—Details or arrangements for circulating cooling fluids; Details or arrangements for circulating gas, e.g. air, within refrigerated spaces, not provided for in other groups of this subclass with forced air circulation characterised by the air supply from the top

Definitions

  • the present invention relates to a refrigerator, and more particularly, to an ice- making device for a refrigerator that is installed on a backside of a door to make ice.
  • Fig. 1 illustrates a main portion of a refrigerator provided with a conventional ice- making device.
  • an inner case 12 is coupled to the inside of an outer case 11 defining the external appearance of a refrigerator main body 10.
  • the inner case 12 is to define the inside of the main body 10, and a freezing chamber 13 that is a storage space is substantially defined by the inner case 12.
  • a door 15 for selectively opening or closing the freezing chamber 13.
  • the door 15 is installed to the main body 10 to be pivotable on one end thereof so that the other end thereof is moved in the fore and aft direction.
  • the door 15 includes an outer door 16 and a door liner 17.
  • the outer door 16 defines the front external appearance of the door 15.
  • the door liner 17 defines the backside external appearance of the door 15.
  • a shroud 19 is provided inside the freezing chamber 13.
  • the shroud 19 is positioned to be spaced apart by a predetermined distance from the rear side of the freezing chamber 13.
  • the shroud 19 is formed with a plurality of cold air discharge holes 19a through which cold air is discharged into the freezing chamber 13.
  • a heat exchange chamber 21 is formed between the rear side of the freezing chamber 13 and the backside of the shroud 19.
  • the lower part of the heat exchange chamber 21 is provided with an evaporator (not shown) for generating cold air.
  • the upper part of the heat exchange chamber 21 is provided with an air- blowing fan 23 for discharging cold air, which is heat-exchanged in the evaporator, to the freezing chamber 13.
  • An ice maker 25 is provided in the upper part of the rear side of the freezing chamber 13 corresponding to the front of the air-blowing fan 23.
  • the ice maker 25 is installed to extend from side to side on the upper part of the freezing chamber 13 adjacent to the shroud 19.
  • the ice maker 25 serves to make ice and transfer it to an ice bank 31, which will be described later.
  • a motor casing 29 is installed on one side of the freezing chamber 13 below the ice maker 25.
  • a feed motor 27 for driving a feed lever 31a to be described later is provided in the motor casing 29.
  • the ice bank 31 is provided in the freezing chamber 13 corresponding to the front of the motor casing 29.
  • the ice bank 31 serves to transfer the ice received from the ice maker 25 to a dispenser (not shown) and to enable a user to take out the ice from the outside.
  • the feed lever 31a driven by the feed motor 27 is provided in the ice bank 31.
  • One end of the feed lever 31 a is connected to a drive shaft of the feed motor 27.
  • the conventional refrigerator so configured has the following problems.
  • the ice maker 25 is installed on the rear side of the freezing chamber 13 to extend from side to side.
  • the motor casing 29 and the ice bank 31 are respectively provided in the freezing chamber 13.
  • a storage capacity of the freezing chamber 13 is reduced as much as the volumes of the ice maker 25, the motor casing 29 and the ice bank 31.
  • the ice maker 25 since the ice maker 25 is installed in the freezing chamber 13, the ice maker 25 makes ice by means of cold air circulating in the freezing chamber 13. Hence, in a process of making ice in the ice maker 25, smell of other food stored in the freezing chamber 13 can permeate the ice. [Disclosure]
  • An object of the present invention is to provide an ice-making device for a refrigerator that is configured to prevent the lowering of a storage capacity of a refrigerator.
  • Another object of the present invention is to provide an ice-making device for a refrigerator that is configured to minimize the phenomenon that smell of other food stored in the refrigerator permeates ice.
  • an ice-making device for a refrigerator comprising an ice maker for making ice, which is provided on a backside of a door for selectively opening or closing a storage space of the refrigerator; and an ice maker cover detachably installed on the backside of the door so as to selectively open or close the ice maker.
  • fixing recesses are formed to be open downwardly on outsides of both sides of the ice maker cover, and receive fixing protrusions provided at corresponding positions on opposite sides of a pair of support steps that protrude rearward from both side ends of the backside of the door by a predetermined length and are formed to be elongated in an up and down direction.
  • play prevention steps are provided at lower ends of both sides of the ice maker cover, and are seated on play prevention ribs provided to be elongated in a horizontal direction at corresponding positions of the opposite sides of the support steps below the fixing protrusions.
  • a fastening hook may be further provided at a lower end of a backside of the ice maker cover adjacent to the backside of the door, wherein the fastening hook is elastically fastened to a connection step formed in such a manner that a portion of the backside of the door protrudes rearward by a predetermined length so as to laterally connect upper ends of the support steps.
  • the ice-making device may further comprise a cold air duct provided to be elongated in a fore and aft direction on a ceiling of the storage space so as to supply the ice maker with a portion of cold air supplied to the storage space; and an ice bank detachably installed on the backside of the door below the ice maker so as to store ice made in the ice maker and to transfer the ice to a dispenser provided on the door.
  • a cold air duct provided to be elongated in a fore and aft direction on a ceiling of the storage space so as to supply the ice maker with a portion of cold air supplied to the storage space
  • an ice bank detachably installed on the backside of the door below the ice maker so as to store ice made in the ice maker and to transfer the ice to a dispenser provided on the door.
  • an ice- making device for a refrigerator comprising an ice maker for making ice, which is provided on a backside of a door for selectively opening or closing a storage space of the refrigerator; an ice bank that is detachably installed on the backside of the door below the ice maker so as to store ice made in the ice maker, and has an ice-releasing means for transferring the ice to a dispenser provided on the door and an ice-crushing means for crushing the ice; a driving connector provided at one side of the backside of the door and rotated by a driving means for providing a driving force for use in operating the ice- releasing means and the ice-crushing means; and an interlocking connector provided at one side of a backside of the ice bank and rotated in cooperation with the rotation of the driving connector so as to transmit the driving force of the driving means to the ice-releasing means and the ice-crushing means, wherein a pair of interlocking protrusions having
  • the ice-making device may further comprise a seating member installed in a space that is defined by the backside of the door, opposite sides of a pair of support steps protruding rearward from both side ends of the backside of the door by a predetermined length and formed to be elongated in an up and down direction, and a seating step formed to be elongated in a left and right direction in such a manner that a portion of the backside of the door between the support steps protrudes rearward by a predetermined length
  • the seating member has an installation space in which the ice maker and the ice bank are installed
  • the driving means is a driving motor installed between the backside of the door and the seating step
  • the driving connector and the interlocking connector are rotatably installed in installation recesses formed at one side of a front side of the installation space and a rear side of the ice bank.
  • the interlocking protrusion may protrude from one side of the front side of the installation space by a predetermined length
  • the interlocking rib
  • the ice-making device may further comprise a cold air duct provided to be elongated in a fore and aft direction on a ceiling of the storage space so as to supply the ice maker with a portion of cold air supplied to the storage space; and an ice maker cover detachably installed on the backside of the door so as to selectively open and close the ice maker.
  • a cold air duct provided to be elongated in a fore and aft direction on a ceiling of the storage space so as to supply the ice maker with a portion of cold air supplied to the storage space
  • an ice maker cover detachably installed on the backside of the door so as to selectively open and close the ice maker.
  • an ice- making device for a refrigerator comprising an ice maker for making ice, which is provided on a backside of a door for selectively opening or closing a storage space of the refrigerator; and a cold air duct provided at one side of the storage space so as to supply the ice maker with a portion of cold air supplied to the storage space, wherein an insulating material is provided in the cold air duct so as to prevent the inside of the cold air duct from being frozen by the cold air supplied to the ice maker.
  • Both ends of the cold air duct may be provided with a cold air inlet through which a portion of cold air to be supplied to the storage space is introduced and a cold air outlet through which cold air to be supplied to the ice maker is discharged, respectively, and the insulating material may be provided in the cold air duct between the cold air inlet and the cold air outlet.
  • the insulating material may be formed of a polyethylene foam material.
  • the ice-making device may further comprise an ice maker cover detachably installed on the backside of the door so as to selectively open and close the ice maker; and an ice bank detachably installed on the backside of the door below the ice maker so as to store ice made in the ice maker and to transfer the ice to a dispenser provided on the door.
  • an ice-making device for a refrigerator comprising an ice maker for making ice, which is provided on a backside of a door for selectively opening or closing a storage space of the refrigerator; an ice maker cover detachably installed on the backside of the door so as to selectively open and close the ice maker; a cold air duct provided at one side of the storage space so as to supply the ice maker with a portion of cold air supplied to the storage space; and an ice bank detachably installed on the backside of the door below the ice maker so as to store ice made in the ice maker and to transfer the ice to a dispenser provided on the door.
  • fixing recesses are formed to be open downwardly on outsides of both sides of the ice maker cover, and receive fixing protrusions provided at corresponding positions on opposite sides of a pair of support steps that protrude rearward from both side ends of the backside of the door by a predetermined length and are formed to be elongated in an up and down direction.
  • a fastening hook is further provided at a lower end of a backside of the ice maker cover adjacent to the backside of the door, wherein the fastening hook is elastically fastened to a connection step formed in such a manner that a portion of the backside of the door protrudes rearward by a predetermined length so as to laterally connect upper ends of the support steps.
  • Play prevention steps may be provided at lower ends of both sides of the ice maker cover, wherein the play prevention steps are seated on play prevention ribs provided to be elongated in a horizontal direction at corresponding positions of the opposite sides of the support steps below the fixing protrusions.
  • An insulating material may be provided in the cold air duct so as to prevent the inside of the cold air duct from being frozen by the cold air supplied to the ice maker.
  • Both ends of the cold air duct may be provided with a cold air inlet through which a portion of cold air to be supplied to the storage space is introduced and a cold air outlet through which cold air to be supplied to the ice maker is discharged, respectively, and the insulating material may be provided in the cold air duct between the cold air inlet and the cold air outlet.
  • An auxiliary cold air outlet may be formed at one side of the cold air duct so that a portion of cold air in the cold air duct is discharged into the storage space therethrough.
  • the insulating material may be formed of a polyethylene foam material.
  • An ice-releasing means for transferring ice stored in the ice bank to the dispenser and an ice-crushing means for crushing the ice may be provided at one side of the ice bank, a driving connector rotated by a driving means may be provided at one side of the backside of the door, an interlocking connector for transmitting a driving force of the driving means to the ice-releasing means and the ice-crushing means in cooperation with the rotation of the driving connector may be provided at one side of the backside of the ice bank, and a pair of interlocking protrusions protruding from the driving connector may be engaged with interlocking ribs formed on the interlocking connector, so that the driving connector and the interlocking connector cooperate with each other.
  • the driving connector may be rotatably provided at one side of a seating member that is mounted on the backside of the door and defines an installation space in which the ice maker and the ice bank can be installed
  • the interlocking connector may be rotatably provided in an installation recess concavely formed on the backside of the ice bank
  • the interlocking rib may be positioned in the installation recess.
  • a storage capacity of a refrigerator can be used to the full extent, smell of food can be prevented from permeating ice in a process of making ice, it is possible to improve durability of a product and to keep a refrigerator clean, and it is possible to prevent the occurrence of a phenomenon that a user is damaged by a product.
  • Fig. 1 is a side sectional view illustrating a main portion of a refrigerator provided with a conventional ice-making device.
  • Fig. 2 is a perspective view illustrating a refrigerator that is provided with a preferred embodiment of an ice-making device for a refrigerator according to the present invention.
  • Fig. 3 is an exploded perspective view illustrating a major portion of the embodiment shown in Fig. 2.
  • Fig. 4 is a side sectional view illustrating a cold air duct constituting the embodiment shown in Fig. 2.
  • Fig. 5 is an exploded perspective view illustrating another major portion of the embodiment shown in Fig. 2.
  • Fig. 6 is a side sectional view illustrating an ice maker cover constituting the embodiment shown in Fig. 2.
  • Fig. 7 is a plan view illustrating the underside of an ice bank constituting the embodiment shown in Fig. 2.
  • Fig. 8 is a side sectional view illustrating a process of flowing cold air and a process of feeding ice in the embodiment shown in Fig. 2.
  • FIG. 2 illustrates a refrigerator that is provided with a preferred embodiment of an ice-making device for a refrigerator according to the present invention
  • Fig. 3 illustrates a major portion of the embodiment shown in Fig. 2
  • Fig. 4 illustrates a cold air duct constituting the embodiment shown in Fig. 2
  • Fig. 5 illustrates another major portion of the embodiment shown in Fig. 2
  • Figs. 6 and 7 illustrate an ice maker cover and an ice bank constituting the embodiment shown in Fig. 2.
  • a freezing chamber 121 and a refrigerating chamber 129 are provided in a refrigerator main body 100 so that they stand side by side. Furthermore, an outer case 111 defines the external appearance of the main body 100. An inner case 113 defining the inside of the main body 100 is coupled to the inside of the outer case 111. That is, the freezing chamber 121 and the refrigerating chamber 129 are defined by the inner case 113.
  • a freezing chamber door 131 and a refrigerating chamber door 139 are provided on the main body 100.
  • Each of the freezing chamber door 131 and the refrigerating chamber door 139 is installed to be pivotable on one end thereof so that a leading end thereof is moved in the fore and aft direction.
  • the refrigerating chamber door 139 serve to selectively open or close the freezing chamber 121 and the refrigerating chamber 129, respectively.
  • the dispenser 131a is to enable a user to take out water or ice from the outside without opening the freezing chamber door 131.
  • the home-bar 139a is to enable a user to take out a beverage from the outside without opening the refrigerating chamber door 139.
  • a shroud 123 is provided in the freezing chamber 121. At this time, the backside of the shroud 123 is spaced apart from the rear side of the freezing chamber 121 by a predetermined distance. Furthermore, a heat exchange chamber 124 (see Fig. 8), in which an evaporator (not shown), an air-blowing fan (not shown) and the like are installed, is defined between the rear side of the freezing chamber 121 and the backside of the shroud 123.
  • a plurality of cold air discharge holes 123 a and 123b are formed in the shroud 123.
  • the cold air discharge holes 123a and 123b are portions through which cold air heat-exchanged in the evaporator is discharged into the freezing chamber 121 by driving the air-blowing fan.
  • the cold air discharge holes 123 a and 123b are formed in the shroud 123 so that they are vertically or laterally spaced apart from each other.
  • a fastening rib 125 is provided on the front side of the shroud 123 above the cold air discharge hole 123 a, which is positioned in the uppermost part of the freezing chamber 121, among the cold air discharge holes 123 a and 123b.
  • the fastening rib 125 protrudes from the front side of the shroud 123 in the forward direction and is provided to extend from side to side. At this time, it is preferred that both ends of the fastening rib 125 be round to be inclined downwardly.
  • the ceiling of the freezing chamber 121 is formed with a pair of fastening holes 126 and a fastening recess 127.
  • the fastening holes 126 and the fastening recess 127 of the freezing chamber 121 are provided in the front end of the ceiling of the freezing chamber 121 corresponding to the front of the cold air discharge hole 123 a and the fastening rib 125. At this time, it is preferred that the fastening recess 127 of the freezing chamber 121 be provided between the fastening holes 126 of the freezing chamber
  • the ceiling of the freezing chamber 121 is provided with a cold air duct 141.
  • the cold air duct 141 causes a portion of cold air discharged through the cold air discharge hole 123 a to flow toward the backside of the freezing chamber door 131, and thus, serves to substantially supply the cold air to an ice maker 161, which will be described later.
  • the cold air duct 141 is formed to extend in the longitudinal direction and to have a side cross section of a "U" shape with the top portion opened.
  • a flow passage in which cold air supplied to the ice maker 161 substantially flows, is defined by the ceiling of the freezing chamber 121 and the inside of the cold air duct 141.
  • the height of the cold air duct 141 be gradually increased from the front end thereof to the rear end thereof. That is, the cold air duct 141 is inclined at a predetermined slope downwardly from its front end to its rear end.
  • the height of the rear end of the cold air duct 141 is relatively larger than at least the overall height of the cold air discharge hole 123 a.
  • the cold air duct 141 is installed on the ceiling of the freezing chamber 121 to extend in the fore and aft direction. At this time, the rear end of the cold air duct 141 is brought into contact with the front side of the shroud 123 so that the cold air discharge hole 123 a is positioned in the cold air duct. In addition, the front end of the cold air duct 141 is positioned adjacent to the front end of the ceiling of the freezing chamber 121.
  • a cold air inlet 143 is formed in the rear end of the cold air duct 141. The cold air inlet 143 serves as an inlet through which cold air discharged through the cold air discharge hole 123 a is introduced into the cold air duct 141.
  • a cold air outlet 144 is formed in the front end of the cold air duct 141.
  • the cold air outlet 144 serves as an outlet through which cold air introduced into the cold air duct 141 through the cold air inlet 143 is discharged to be introduced into a cold air introduction hole 175 of an ice maker cover 171, which will be described later.
  • the height of the cold air duct 141 is gradually increased from its front end to its rear end.
  • the cold air outlet 144 is downwardly inclined toward the front of the freezing chamber 121.
  • an auxiliary cold air outlet 145 is provided in the rear end of the cold air duct 141 adjacent to the cold air inlet 143. The auxiliary cold air outlet 145 serves to discharge a portion of cold air, which is introduced into the cold air duct 141 through the cold air discharge hole 123 a, into the freezing chamber 121.
  • a support rib 146 is provided on the inside of the rear end of the cold air duct 141.
  • the support rib 146 is formed on the rear end of the cold air duct 141 to extend from side to side. Furthermore, in a state where the cold air duct 141 is installed on the ceiling of the freezing chamber 121, the bottom of the support rib 146 is supported on the top side of the fastening rib 125.
  • a pair of fastening bosses 147 are provided on the inside of the front end of the cold air duct 141 corresponding to the front of the cold air outlet 144.
  • the fastening bosses 147 protrude upwardly from the inside of the front end of the cold air duct 141, so that leading ends of the fastening bosses are brought into contact with the ceiling of the freezing chamber 121.
  • the fastening bosses 147 are laterally spaced apart from each other by a predetermined distance.
  • a through hole 147a through which a fastening screw Sl to be fastened to the fastening hole 126 of the freezing chamber 121 passes, is formed in each of the fastening bosses 147.
  • a fastening protrusion 148 is provided on the inside of the front end of the cold air duct 141 between the fastening bosses 147.
  • the fastening protrusion 148 protrudes upwardly from the inside of the front end of the cold air duct 141.
  • the fastening protrusion 148 is formed longer than the fastening boss 147 and is thus inserted into the fastening recess 127 of the freezing chamber 121.
  • An insulating material 149 is provided on an inner surface of the cold air duct 141.
  • the insulating material 149 is provided on the inner surface of the cold air duct 141 between the cold air outlet 144 and the auxiliary cold air outlet 145.
  • the insulating material 149 serves to prevent a phenomenon that the inside of the cold air duct 141 is frozen by cold air flowing into the cold air duct 141 through the cold air inlet 143.
  • the insulating material 149 be formed of polyethylene foam. This is to enable the thickness of the insulating material 149 to have a thickness of 3mm or less, thereby maximizing the amount of cold air flowing to the ice maker 161 through the cold air duct 141.
  • the insulating material 149 is not limited thereto but may be formed of general Styrofoam.
  • an outer door 133 defines the front external appearance of the freezing chamber door 131.
  • a door liner 134 defining the rear external appearance of the freezing chamber 131 is coupled to the inside of the outer door 133.
  • support steps 135 are respectively provided on both side ends of the backside of the freezing chamber door 131.
  • a portion of the door liner 134 protrudes rearward by a predetermined length, so that each support step 135 is formed to vertically extend.
  • a plurality of fixing protrusions 135a and 135b are provided at their corresponding positions on side surfaces of the support steps 135 facing each other.
  • play prevention ribs 135c are provided on opposite sides of the support steps 135 which face with each other.
  • the play prevention ribs 135c are positioned at corresponding positions so that they are downwardly spaced apart by a predetermined distance from the fixing protrusion 135b of the locking protrusions 135a and 135b that is provided in a relatively upper part of the support step 135.
  • the play prevention ribs 135c are provided to be elongated in a horizontal direction on the opposite sides of the support steps 135.
  • a seating step 136 is provided on the backside of the freezing chamber 131.
  • the seating step 136 is formed in such a manner that a portion of the door liner 134 between the support steps 135 protrudes rearward by a predetermined length.
  • the seating step 136 protrudes relatively longer than the support step 135.
  • the seating step 136 is substantially formed by installing the dispenser 131a.
  • a communication hole 136a is provided in the seating step 136.
  • the communication hole 136a of the seating step 136 is formed in such a manner that a portion of the seating step 136 is cut away.
  • the communication hole 136a of the seating step 136 is to supply the ice made in the ice maker 161 to the dispenser 131a.
  • a pair of fastening holes 136b are formed in the front end of the seating step 136.
  • connection step 137 is formed to extend in such a manner that a portion of the door liner 134 protrudes rearward by a predetermined length so as to laterally connect the upper ends of the support steps 135.
  • a seating member 151 is provided on the backside of the freezing chamber door 131.
  • the seating member 151 is formed in the shape of a polyhedron with a portion opened to have a predetermined installation space 151S provided therein. That is, the seating member 151 includes a front plate 153 defining the front side of the installation space 151 S, both side plates 155 defining both side surfaces of the installation space 151S, and a bottom plate 157 defining the bottom surface of the installation space 151 S.
  • the backside of the front plate 153 is brought into contact with the backside of the freezing chamber door 131 between the support steps 135. Outer surfaces of both the side plates 155 are respectively brought into contact with the side surfaces of the support steps 135 facing each other. Furthermore, the underside of the bottom plate 157 is brought into contact with the top side of the seating step 136.
  • the front side of the installation space 151 S is provided with cold air guides 153a.
  • the cold air guides 153a are to guide a portion of cold air, which is supplied to the ice maker 161 by the cold air duct 141, to a space between the installation space 151S and the ice maker 161.
  • the cold air guides 153 a are configured in a pair to be provided in the upper portion of the front side of the installation space 151 S to vertically extend and to be laterally spaced apart from each other by a predetermined distance.
  • the cold air guides 153a are formed in such a manner that a portion of the front plate 153 defining the front side of the installation space 151 S protrudes forward.
  • a pair of fastening holes 153b are formed in the front side of the installation space 151 S. It is preferred that the fastening holes 153b be formed in the upper portion of the front side of the installation space 151 S corresponding to one side of the cold air guide 153a.
  • a catching rib 153c is provided on the front side of the installation space 151S.
  • the catching rib 153c is formed in such a manner that a portion of the front plate 153 protrudes forward.
  • the catching rib 153 c is positioned on a trace that is formed by the upper end of the ice bank 181 upon rotating of the upper end of the ice bank
  • various components for operating the dispenser 131a and the ice-making device are installed in a space between the backside of the freezing chamber door 131 and the backside of the seating instrument 151, i.e., the backside of the front plate
  • a motor (not shown) that provides a driving force for use in feeding and crushing ice stored in the ice bank 181.
  • a motor shaft Ma of the motor penetrates one side of the front lower part of the installation space 151 S and is positioned within the installation space 151 S.
  • a driving connector 154 is installed on the motor shaft Ma. The driving connector 154 is driven by the motor and thus rotates about the motor shaft Ma.
  • the driving connector 154 is formed to have a predetermined length. Further, interlocking protrusions 154a are provided at both ends of one side of the driving connector 154.
  • the interlocking protrusion 154a is formed in the shape of a cylinder vertically extending from the one side of the driving connector 154 and protrudes into the installation space 153. Since the interlocking protrusion 154a is formed in the cylindrical shape as above, it is possible to prevent the body of a user from being damaged by the interlocking protrusions 154a even in such a state where the ice bank 181 is removed from the installation space 151 S.
  • fixing recesses 155a are formed in the outsides of both sides of the seating member 151 corresponding to the outsides of both sides of the installation space 151S, respectively.
  • the fixing recess 155a of the seating member 151 is formed in an approximately "U" shape opened downwardly.
  • the fixing protrusion 135a of the support step 135 is inserted into the fixing recess 155a of the seating member 151.
  • the fixing protrusion 135a of the support step 135 is inserted into the fixing recess 155a of the seating member 151, and thus, the seating member 151 is fastened to the backside of the freezing chamber door 131.
  • a communication hole 157a is provided in the bottom side of the installation space 151S.
  • the communication hole 157a of the installation space 151 S communicates with the communication hole 136a of the seating step 136. Hence, the ice passing through the communication hole 157a of the installation space 151 S and the communication hole 136a of the seating step 136 is taken out to the outside through the dispenser 131a.
  • the communication hole 157a of the installation space 151 S is formed in such a manner that a portion of the bottom plate 157 corresponding to the bottom side of the installation space 151 S is cut away.
  • a pair of through holes 157b are formed in the front end of the bottom side of the installation space 151S.
  • the through hole 157b of the installation space 151S is a hole through which a fastening screw S2 to be fastened to the fastening hole 136b of the seating step 136 passes.
  • a pair of catching protrusions 157c are provided in the front end of the bottom side of the installation space 151S. Each of the catching protrusions 157c is formed in such a manner that a portion of the bottom plate 157 corresponding to the bottom side of the installation space 151 S protrudes upwardly.
  • the ice maker 161 is provided on the upper part of the installation space 151S.
  • the ice maker 161 serves to make ice to be taken out to the outside through the dispenser 131a.
  • a pair of mounting brackets 163 are provided on one side of the ice maker 161.
  • Each of the mounting brackets 163 is formed with a through hole 163 a.
  • a fastening screw S3 penetrating the through hole 163a of the ice maker 161 is fastened to the fastening hole 153b of the installation space 151 S, so that the ice maker 161 is fastened to the installation space 151 S.
  • an ice maker cover 171 is detachably installed in the upper part of the installation space 151S.
  • the ice maker cover 171 serves to selectively open or close the ice maker 161 and to allow cold air supplied through the cold air duct 141 to be transferred to the ice maker 161.
  • the ice maker 161 is substantially positioned in the ice maker cover 171.
  • the ice maker cover 171 is formed in the shape of a polyhedron having the open lower side and one open side adjacent to the backside of the freezing chamber 131. Furthermore, fixing recesses 173 are formed in the outsides of both sides of the ice maker cover 171, respectively. The fixing recess 173 of the ice maker cover 171 is formed in a "U" shape opened downwardly. The fixing protrusion 135b of the support step 135 is inserted into the fixing recess 173 of the ice maker cover 171.
  • a fastening hook 174 is provided on the rear side of the ice maker cover 171 that is brought into contact with the front side of the installation space 151 S.
  • the fastening hook 174 is formed to have predetermined elasticity, so that the ice maker cover 171 is elastically fastened to the connection step 137 in a state where the ice maker cover 171 is installed in the installation space 151S.
  • the height of the ice maker cover 171 is gradually increased from the rear end thereof adjacent to the backside of the freezing chamber door 131 toward the front end thereof.
  • the top side of the ice maker cover 171 is inclined downwardly at the same slope as the cold air duct 141 from the rear end thereof adjacent to the backside of the freezing chamber door 131 toward the front end thereof. That is, the cold duct 141 and the ice maker cover 171 are shaped to mate with each other. Accordingly, in a state where the freezing chamber door 131 closes the freezing chamber 121, the cold air duct 141 and the ice maker cover 171 are positioned adjacent to each other.
  • a cold air introduction hole 175 is formed in the top side of the ice maker cover
  • the cold air introduction hole 175 serves as an inlet into which cold air supplied through the cold air outlet 144 of the cold air duct 141 is introduced. In a state where the freezing chamber door 131 closes the freezing chamber 121, the cold air introduction hole 175 is formed in a position communicating with the cold air inlet 143 to have a size and shape corresponding to the cold air inlet 143.
  • the cold air introduction hole 175 is provided with a plurality of blades 176.
  • the blades 176 serve to guide cold air, which is introduced through the cold air introduction hole 175, to the ice maker 161.
  • Each of the blades 176 is inclined at a predetermined angle with respect to the vertical axis so as to guide cold air toward the ice maker 161 along the shortest route.
  • an inclination angle of the blade 176 varies depending on a distance from the ice maker 161 and a position relative thereto.
  • the first blade 176a most adjacent to the ice maker 161 has an inclination angle of 45 degrees with respect to the vertical axis.
  • the seventh blade 176g furthest spaced from the ice maker 161 has an inclination angle of 70 degrees with respect to the vertical axis.
  • the second to sixth blades 176b, 176c, 176d, 176e and 176f positioned between the first blade 176a and the seventh blade 176g respectively have inclination angles that are gradually increased between 45 and 70 degrees with respect to the vertical axis as they become further away from the ice maker 161. That is, the second to sixth blades 176b, 176c, 176d, 176e and 176f have inclination angles of 49, 53, 57, 61 and 65 degrees with respect to the vertical axis, respectively.
  • the ice maker cover 171 is provided with a viewing window 177.
  • the viewing window 177 of the ice maker cover 171 is formed of a transparent or translucent material.
  • the viewing window 177 of the ice maker cover 171 is to view the process of making ice in the ice maker 161 with the naked eye in a state where a user does not detach the ice maker cover 171.
  • Play prevention steps 178 are formed at lower ends of both side surfaces of the ice maker cover 171.
  • the play prevention step 178 is positioned below the fixing recess 173 of the ice maker cover 171.
  • the play prevention step 178 is seated on the top side of the play prevention rib
  • the fixing protrusion 135a is inserted into the fixing recess 173 of the ice maker cover 171, and the play prevention step 178 is seated on the play prevention rib 135c, thereby preventing a phenomenon that the ice maker cover 171 plays partly in an up and down direction in a state where it is installed in the installation space 151 S.
  • the ice bank 181 is detachably installed to the lower part of the installation space 151 S below the ice maker 161 and the ice maker cover 171. The ice made in the ice maker 161 is stored in the ice bank 181.
  • the ice bank 181 transfers the stored ice to the dispenser 131a so as to enable a user to take out the ice from the outside.
  • the ice bank 181 is formed in the shape of a polyhedron having the same cross section as the ice maker cover 171. Furthermore, a storage space 181 S of a hopper shape with an upper part opened is provided in the ice bank 181. The storage space 181 S stores the ice made in the ice maker 161.
  • an ice feeding opening 183 is provided in the underside of the ice bank 181.
  • the ice feeding opening 183 serves as an outlet for transferring the ice stored in the storage space 181 S to the dispenser 131a. That is, the ice stored in the storage space 181 S is transferred to the dispenser 131a through the ice feeding opening 183, the communication hole 157a of the installation space 151 S and the communication hole 136a of the seating step 136. Meanwhile, an ice-releasing means for feeding the ice stored in the storage space
  • ice bank 181 S to the dispenser 131a through the ice feeding opening 183 is provided in the ice bank 181. Further, an ice-crushing means for crushing ice, which is fed to the dispenser 131a, according to user's selection is provided in the ice bank 181.
  • a pair of catching recesses 184 are formed in the underside of the ice bank 181.
  • the catching protrusions 157c are respectively inserted into the catching recesses 184.
  • the upper end circumference of the ice bank 181 is spaced apart by a predetermined distance from the underside of the ice maker 161 and the lower end circumference of the ice maker cover 171.
  • a gap between the lower end circumference of the ice maker cover 171 and the underside of the ice maker 161 and the upper end circumference of the ice bank 181 is designed to be relatively smaller than the height of the catching protrusion 157c.
  • the rear side of the ice bank 181 is spaced apart from the front side of the installation space 151 S by a predetermined distance.
  • the ice bank 181 is moved to be upwardly inclined in a state where the upper end of the rear side thereof is rotated to be adjacent to the front side of the installation space 151 S, and then, the catching protrusions 157c are separated from the catching recesses 184. At this time, the ice bank 181 is moved until the upper end of the rear side thereof is brought into contact with one portion of the front side of the installation space 151S, and more specifically, a portion adjacent to an edge defined by the rear end of the underside of the ice maker 161 and the front side of the installation space 151S.
  • the ice bank 181 is moved to be upwardly inclined in a state where the upper end of the rear side thereof is rotated to be adjacent to the front side of the installation space 151 S, and then, the catching protrusions 157c are separated from the catching recesses 184. At this time, the ice bank 181 is moved until the upper end of the rear side thereof is brought into contact with one portion of the front side of the installation
  • a round portion 185 is provided in the lower end of the rear side of the ice bank 181.
  • the round portion 185 causes the ice bank 181 to be easily rotated about the lower end thereof in the direction in which the upper end of the rear side of the ice bank 181 becomes adjacent to the front side of the installation space 151 S so that the ice bank 181 is mounted to or detached from the installation space 151 S. Meanwhile, a shock can be generated in the process of rotating the freezing chamber door 131.
  • the ice bank 181 is rotated about the lower end thereof. That is, the ice bank 181 is rotated about the lower end thereof in the direction in which the upper end of the ice bank 181 becomes adjacent to or spaced apart from the front side of the installation space 151 S.
  • the ice bank 181 is installed so that the rear side thereof is spaced apart from the front side of the installation space 151 S by a predetermined distance. Hence, in the process of rotating the freezing chamber door 131, although the ice bank 181 is rotated about the lower end thereof in the direction in which the upper end thereof becomes adjacent to the front side of the installation space 151S, the ice bank 181 is not detached from the installation space 151 S.
  • the upper end of the rear side of the ice bank 181 is positioned adjacent to the catching rib 153c.
  • the ice bank 181 is rotated about the lower end thereof in the direction in which the upper end thereof becomes spaced apart from the front side of the installation space 151 S, the upper end of the rear side of the ice bank 181 is caught to the catching rib 153c, and thus, the ice bank 181 is not detached from the installation space 151 S inadvertently.
  • the ice bank 181 is provided with a viewing window 187.
  • the viewing window 187 of the ice bank 181 is formed of a transparent or translucent material like the viewing window 177.
  • a user can identify an amount of the ice stored in the storage space 181 S through the viewing window 187 of the ice maker cover 171.
  • an installation recess 188 is formed in the lower part of the rear side of the ice bank 181.
  • the installation recess 188 of the ice bank 181 is formed at a position corresponding to the driving connector 154.
  • the installation recess 188 of the ice bank 181 is formed to be recessed inwardly such that a portion of the rear side of the ice bank 181 has a circular cross section.
  • One end of a rotational shaft A is positioned in the installation recess 188 of the ice bank 181. The other end of the rotational shaft A extends into the ice bank 181.
  • the ice-releasing means and the ice-crushing means are coupled to the rotational shaft A extending into the ice bank 181. Hence, if the rotational shaft A is rotated, the ice-releasing means and the ice-crushing means are operated so that ice stored in the storage space 181 S is fed to the dispenser 131a or is crushed.
  • an interlocking connector 189 is installed in the installation recess
  • the interlocking connector 189 is installed to be rotatable about the rotational shaft A.
  • the interlocking connector 189 is formed in the shape of a cylinder having a diameter relatively smaller than the dimension of the installation recess
  • a pair of interlocking ribs 189a are provided on an inner circumferential surface of the interlocking connector 189.
  • the interlocking ribs 189a protrude from both sides of the inner circumferential surface of the interlocking connector 189 by a predetermined length in a direction in which they face each other.
  • the interlocking rib 189a is substantially positioned in the installation recess 188 of the ice bank 181.
  • the interlocking rib 189a is engaged with the interlocking protrusion 154a and thus serves to rotate the interlocking connector 189 in cooperation with the rotation of the driving connector 154.
  • Fig. 8 illustrates a process of flowing cold air and a process of feeding ice in the preferred embodiment of the ice-making device for a refrigerator according to the present invention.
  • the cold air which is heat-exchanged in the evaporator provided in the heat exchange camber 124, is discharged into the freezing chamber 121 through the cold air discharge holes 123 a and 123b. Then, the cold air discharged through any one, e.g., the cold air discharge hole 123 a, of the cold air discharge holes 123 a and 123b is introduced into the cold air duct 141 through the cold air inlet 143.
  • a portion of the cold air introduced into the cold air duct 141 is supplied into the freezing chamber 121 through the auxiliary cold air outlet 145. Then, the remaining cold air introduced into the cold air duct 141 is discharged through the cold air outlet 144 and then supplied to the ice maker 161 positioned in the ice maker cover 171 through the cold air introduction hole 175.
  • the insulating material 149 is provided in the cold air duct 141.
  • cold air introduced into the cold air duct 141 through the cold air inlet 143 is discharged through the cold air outlet 144 and the auxiliary cold air outlet 145, it is possible to minimize a phenomenon that freezing occurs in the cold air duct 141.
  • the cold air duct 141 and the ice maker cover 171 mate with each other in shape. Hence, the phenomenon is minimized that the cold air introduced into the cold air introduction hole 175 through the cold air outlet 144 flows out to the outside, i.e., to the inside of the freezing chamber 121. Furthermore, the cold air supplied to the ice maker 161 through the cold air introduction hole 175 is guided along the shortest route by the blades 176. Hence, the cold air is guided so as to be supplied to the ice maker 161 more efficiently by the blades 176.
  • a portion of the cold air guided by the blades 176 flows through a space between the front side of the installation space 151S and the ice maker 161 by the cold air guides 153a, and, then, is supplied to the ice maker 161.
  • the cold air is also supplied smoothly to one side of the ice maker 161 corresponding to the opposite side to the cold air introduction hole 175.
  • the ice made in the ice maker 161 is stored in the storage space 181 S of the ice bank 181. Then, the ice is dispensed to the outside through the dispenser 131a by the manipulation of a user. At this time, the ice can be crushed into pieces having a predetermined size according to the user's selection. More specifically, when the motor shaft Ma is rotated by means of driving of the motor, the driving connector 154 is rotated. Furthermore, when the driving connector 154 is rotated, the interlocking connector 189 of which the interlocking rib 189a is engaged with the interlocking protrusion 154a of the driving connector 154 is also rotated in cooperation with the rotation of the driving connector. Hence, the rotational shaft A that is coupled to the interlocking connector 189 is rotated.
  • the ice maker is installed on the backside of the freezing chamber door. Hence, it is possible to prevent the phenomenon that a storage capacity of a storage space of a refrigerator, more particularly, a freezing chamber is lowered, thereby storing much more food in the freezing chamber.
  • the ice bank that stores the ice made in the ice maker and transfers the ice to the dispenser is also installed on the backside of the freezing chamber door.
  • the fixing protrusion of the freezing chamber door is inserted into the fixing recess of the ice maker cover, and the play prevention step of the ice maker cover is seated on the play prevention rib of the freezing chamber door, thereby preventing a phenomenon that the ice maker plays partly in the up and down direction in a state where it is installed on the backside of the freezing chamber door.
  • the play prevention step of the ice maker cover is seated on the play prevention rib of the freezing chamber door, thereby preventing a phenomenon that the ice maker plays partly in the up and down direction in a state where it is installed on the backside of the freezing chamber door.
  • the interlocking protrusion in the form of a cylinder is provided on the driving connector that is installed on the backside of the door so as to transmit a driving force to the ice-releasing means and the ice-crushing means provided in the ice bank.
  • the insulating material is provided in the cold air duct.
  • cold air is supplied to the ice maker by the cold air duct, it is possible to minimize a phenomenon that freezing occurs in the cold air duct, and thus, it is possible to use a refrigerator more cleanly.

Landscapes

  • Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Physics & Mathematics (AREA)
  • Mechanical Engineering (AREA)
  • Thermal Sciences (AREA)
  • General Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Chemical & Material Sciences (AREA)
  • Combustion & Propulsion (AREA)
  • Devices That Are Associated With Refrigeration Equipment (AREA)
  • Cold Air Circulating Systems And Constructional Details In Refrigerators (AREA)
  • Refrigerator Housings (AREA)
EP07746057.4A 2006-04-18 2007-04-18 Eisherstellungsvorrichtung für kühlschrank Active EP2008041B1 (de)

Priority Applications (6)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
EP16191906.3A EP3153798B1 (de) 2006-04-18 2007-04-18 Eisherstellungsvorrichtung für kühlschrank
EP17178527.2A EP3290832B1 (de) 2006-04-18 2007-04-18 Eisherstellungsvorrichtung für kühlschrank
EP22210402.8A EP4177551A1 (de) 2006-04-18 2007-04-18 Kühlschrank mit einer eiserzeugungsvorrichtung
EP14170942.8A EP2775237B1 (de) 2006-04-18 2007-04-18 Kühlschrank mit einer Eisherstellungsvorrichtung
EP20206670.0A EP3828483B1 (de) 2006-04-18 2007-04-18 Kühlschrank aufweisend eine eisherstellungsvorrichtung
EP19170986.4A EP3546856A1 (de) 2006-04-18 2007-04-18 Eisherstellungsvorrichtung für kühlschrank

Applications Claiming Priority (4)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
KR1020060035110A KR101192340B1 (ko) 2006-04-18 2006-04-18 냉장고용 제빙장치
KR1020060035122A KR100953972B1 (ko) 2006-04-18 2006-04-18 냉장고용 제빙장치
KR1020060035107A KR100953973B1 (ko) 2006-04-18 2006-04-18 냉장고용 제빙장치
PCT/KR2007/001895 WO2007120015A1 (en) 2006-04-18 2007-04-18 Ice-making device for refrigerator

Related Child Applications (7)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
EP20206670.0A Division EP3828483B1 (de) 2006-04-18 2007-04-18 Kühlschrank aufweisend eine eisherstellungsvorrichtung
EP14170942.8A Division EP2775237B1 (de) 2006-04-18 2007-04-18 Kühlschrank mit einer Eisherstellungsvorrichtung
EP14170942.8A Division-Into EP2775237B1 (de) 2006-04-18 2007-04-18 Kühlschrank mit einer Eisherstellungsvorrichtung
EP22210402.8A Division EP4177551A1 (de) 2006-04-18 2007-04-18 Kühlschrank mit einer eiserzeugungsvorrichtung
EP16191906.3A Division EP3153798B1 (de) 2006-04-18 2007-04-18 Eisherstellungsvorrichtung für kühlschrank
EP19170986.4A Division EP3546856A1 (de) 2006-04-18 2007-04-18 Eisherstellungsvorrichtung für kühlschrank
EP17178527.2A Division EP3290832B1 (de) 2006-04-18 2007-04-18 Eisherstellungsvorrichtung für kühlschrank

Publications (3)

Publication Number Publication Date
EP2008041A1 true EP2008041A1 (de) 2008-12-31
EP2008041A4 EP2008041A4 (de) 2013-12-18
EP2008041B1 EP2008041B1 (de) 2015-08-19

Family

ID=38609735

Family Applications (7)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
EP17178527.2A Active EP3290832B1 (de) 2006-04-18 2007-04-18 Eisherstellungsvorrichtung für kühlschrank
EP22210402.8A Pending EP4177551A1 (de) 2006-04-18 2007-04-18 Kühlschrank mit einer eiserzeugungsvorrichtung
EP19170986.4A Pending EP3546856A1 (de) 2006-04-18 2007-04-18 Eisherstellungsvorrichtung für kühlschrank
EP14170942.8A Active EP2775237B1 (de) 2006-04-18 2007-04-18 Kühlschrank mit einer Eisherstellungsvorrichtung
EP16191906.3A Active EP3153798B1 (de) 2006-04-18 2007-04-18 Eisherstellungsvorrichtung für kühlschrank
EP20206670.0A Active EP3828483B1 (de) 2006-04-18 2007-04-18 Kühlschrank aufweisend eine eisherstellungsvorrichtung
EP07746057.4A Active EP2008041B1 (de) 2006-04-18 2007-04-18 Eisherstellungsvorrichtung für kühlschrank

Family Applications Before (6)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
EP17178527.2A Active EP3290832B1 (de) 2006-04-18 2007-04-18 Eisherstellungsvorrichtung für kühlschrank
EP22210402.8A Pending EP4177551A1 (de) 2006-04-18 2007-04-18 Kühlschrank mit einer eiserzeugungsvorrichtung
EP19170986.4A Pending EP3546856A1 (de) 2006-04-18 2007-04-18 Eisherstellungsvorrichtung für kühlschrank
EP14170942.8A Active EP2775237B1 (de) 2006-04-18 2007-04-18 Kühlschrank mit einer Eisherstellungsvorrichtung
EP16191906.3A Active EP3153798B1 (de) 2006-04-18 2007-04-18 Eisherstellungsvorrichtung für kühlschrank
EP20206670.0A Active EP3828483B1 (de) 2006-04-18 2007-04-18 Kühlschrank aufweisend eine eisherstellungsvorrichtung

Country Status (11)

Country Link
US (2) US8281610B2 (de)
EP (7) EP3290832B1 (de)
CN (2) CN101818977B (de)
AU (2) AU2007239152B2 (de)
BR (1) BRPI0706748B1 (de)
CA (1) CA2636198C (de)
ES (4) ES2690563T3 (de)
IL (1) IL194194A (de)
PL (1) PL3828483T3 (de)
SI (1) SI3828483T1 (de)
WO (1) WO2007120015A1 (de)

Families Citing this family (26)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US8353177B2 (en) 2004-09-27 2013-01-15 Whirlpool Corporation Apparatus and method for dispensing ice from a bottom mount refrigerator
US7340914B2 (en) 2005-01-03 2008-03-11 Whirlpool Corporation Refrigerator with a water and ice dispenser having a retractable ledge
US7726148B2 (en) * 2005-05-18 2010-06-01 Maytag Corporation Refrigerator ice compartment seal
US7337620B2 (en) 2005-05-18 2008-03-04 Whirlpool Corporation Insulated ice compartment for bottom mount refrigerator
US7568359B2 (en) 2005-05-27 2009-08-04 Maytag Corporation Insulated ice compartment for bottom mount refrigerator with controlled heater
KR100934185B1 (ko) 2007-10-31 2009-12-29 엘지전자 주식회사 아이스 메이킹 장치
EP2235450B1 (de) * 2007-12-14 2024-04-03 Lg Electronics, Inc. Kühlschrank mit eisspeicher
KR20100133155A (ko) * 2009-06-11 2010-12-21 엘지전자 주식회사 제빙장치를 구비하는 냉장고
KR101776297B1 (ko) * 2010-01-29 2017-09-07 엘지전자 주식회사 냉장고
KR20110096672A (ko) 2010-02-23 2011-08-31 엘지전자 주식회사 냉장고의 아이스 뱅크 및 이를 포함하는 냉장고
US20110232317A1 (en) * 2010-03-25 2011-09-29 Whirlpool Corporation Insulation front of ice storage compartment
KR101502112B1 (ko) 2012-04-10 2015-03-13 삼성전자 주식회사 냉장고 및 그 제조 방법
US9470448B2 (en) 2012-12-13 2016-10-18 Whirlpool Corporation Apparatus to warm plastic side of mold
US9500398B2 (en) 2012-12-13 2016-11-22 Whirlpool Corporation Twist harvest ice geometry
US9759472B2 (en) 2012-12-13 2017-09-12 Whirlpool Corporation Clear ice maker with warm air flow
US9557087B2 (en) 2012-12-13 2017-01-31 Whirlpool Corporation Clear ice making apparatus having an oscillation frequency and angle
US9915458B2 (en) 2014-10-23 2018-03-13 Whirlpool Corporation Method and apparatus for increasing rate of ice production in an automatic ice maker
US10101074B2 (en) * 2016-04-21 2018-10-16 Electrolux Home Products, Inc. Ice maker air flow ribs
WO2017190807A1 (en) * 2016-05-06 2017-11-09 Arcelik Anonim Sirketi Cool air deflector device for use with an ice maker in a refrigerator
US10739053B2 (en) 2017-11-13 2020-08-11 Whirlpool Corporation Ice-making appliance
US10775088B2 (en) * 2018-02-16 2020-09-15 Haier Us Appliance Solutions, Inc. Ice making assembly coupling
CN108613469A (zh) * 2018-07-05 2018-10-02 合肥雪祺电气有限公司 一种具有谷物储存及箱外取物的冰箱
US10907874B2 (en) 2018-10-22 2021-02-02 Whirlpool Corporation Ice maker downspout
CN110108082B (zh) * 2019-05-09 2024-06-25 广东奥马冰箱有限公司 一种制冰机组件的安装结构及冰箱
US11846462B2 (en) 2021-03-19 2023-12-19 Electrolux Home Products, Inc. Door mounted chilled component with direct cooling
CN113758095B (zh) * 2021-09-24 2022-11-15 Tcl家用电器（合肥）有限公司 制冰装置及冰箱

Citations (3)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US6082130A (en) * 1998-12-28 2000-07-04 Whirlpool Corporation Ice delivery system for a refrigerator
US20050132739A1 (en) * 2003-12-22 2005-06-23 Sannasi Ashok K. Refrigerator and ice maker apparatus
US20080011010A1 (en) * 2006-07-13 2008-01-17 Maytag Corp. Icemaker assembly for a refrigerator

Family Cites Families (44)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US3874559A (en) 1974-01-16 1975-04-01 John J Pink Ice dispenser for freezer-refrigerators and the like
JPS5294555A (en) * 1976-02-04 1977-08-09 Hoshizaki Electric Co Ltd Ice reservoir detection device
US4252002A (en) * 1979-08-31 1981-02-24 Mullins Jr James N Sanitary ice maker and dispenser
US4997109A (en) * 1988-06-02 1991-03-05 Whirlpool Corporation Manual dispensing ice storage bucket
US5160094A (en) 1992-02-24 1992-11-03 Whirlpool Corporation Recoverable domestic ice maker
JPH0611228A (ja) * 1992-06-29 1994-01-21 Hitachi Ltd 自動製氷機付き冷蔵庫
US5273219A (en) * 1993-01-11 1993-12-28 White Consolidated Industries, Inc. Ice dispenser
JPH07270046A (ja) 1994-03-31 1995-10-20 Matsushita Refrig Co Ltd 区画室等の扉支持装置
US5480061A (en) * 1994-09-01 1996-01-02 E & S Dispenser Company Portable tabletop cookie dispenser
RU3638U1 (ru) 1996-01-10 1997-02-16 Валерий Борисович Захаров Устройство для получения кускового льда со сквозным вертикальным отверстием
KR100239520B1 (ko) 1997-05-17 2000-01-15 윤종용 냉장고용 얼음 공급 장치
US6425259B2 (en) * 1998-12-28 2002-07-30 Whirlpool Corporation Removable ice bucket for an ice maker
US6050097A (en) * 1998-12-28 2000-04-18 Whirlpool Corporation Ice making and storage system for a refrigerator
KR200163788Y1 (ko) * 1999-07-13 2000-02-15 삼성전자주식회사 냉장고용얼음이송장치
JP3582706B2 (ja) * 1999-11-11 2004-10-27 株式会社三協精機製作所 自動製氷機の駆動装置および自動製氷機ならびに冷蔵庫
JP3647343B2 (ja) 2000-01-13 2005-05-11 シャープ株式会社 冷蔵庫
KR100653055B1 (ko) 2000-02-10 2006-12-01 삼성전자주식회사 김치냉장고
US6442954B1 (en) * 2001-07-02 2002-09-03 General Electric Company Dual hopper icemaking refrigerator
KR20030008100A (ko) 2001-07-16 2003-01-24 주식회사 엘지이아이 냉장고 제빙기의 얼음저장용기
JP2003106735A (ja) 2001-09-27 2003-04-09 Sanyo Electric Co Ltd 冷却貯蔵庫
CN1211621C (zh) * 2002-06-06 2005-07-20 乐金电子(天津)电器有限公司 电冰箱的制冰机
RU2338133C2 (ru) 2003-03-28 2008-11-10 Эл Джи Электроникс Инк. Холодильник
JP2005009784A (ja) 2003-06-19 2005-01-13 Sanyo Electric Co Ltd 冷却貯蔵庫
KR100565606B1 (ko) * 2003-08-26 2006-03-30 엘지전자 주식회사 냉장고의 제빙장치
CN2663883Y (zh) * 2003-09-12 2004-12-15 江苏白雪电器股份有限公司 制冰机的储冰箱
KR100565613B1 (ko) 2003-09-16 2006-03-29 엘지전자 주식회사 제빙기커버장치가 부착된 냉장고의 제빙기
KR100565633B1 (ko) * 2003-11-19 2006-03-30 엘지전자 주식회사 냉장고의 제빙장치
ITTO20040003U1 (it) 2004-01-16 2004-04-16 Elbi Int Spa Dispositivo per la produzione di ghiaccio in un frigorifero
KR100607288B1 (ko) 2004-01-28 2006-07-28 엘지전자 주식회사 사이드 바이 사이드 타입 냉장고의 제빙용 냉기 유로 구조
KR100547341B1 (ko) 2004-01-28 2006-01-26 엘지전자 주식회사 냉장고
KR100547342B1 (ko) 2004-01-28 2006-01-26 엘지전자 주식회사 냉장고
EP1580504B1 (de) * 2004-03-24 2017-03-29 LG Electronics, Inc. Kaltluftführungsstruktur für eine Eiserzeugungskammer in einer Kaltkammertür
KR100584270B1 (ko) * 2004-03-24 2006-05-26 엘지전자 주식회사 바텀 프리저 타입 냉장고의 제빙 냉기 유로 구조
MXPA04003411A (es) * 2004-04-07 2005-10-11 Mabe De Mexico S De R L De C V Dispositivo para la fabricacion de hielos en gabinetes refrigerados.
KR20050100134A (ko) 2004-04-13 2005-10-18 엘지전자 주식회사 탑 마운트 타입 냉장고
KR20050110212A (ko) 2004-05-18 2005-11-23 주식회사 대창 제빙기
US7188479B2 (en) 2004-10-26 2007-03-13 Whirlpool Corporation Ice and water dispenser on refrigerator compartment door
EP1705438B1 (de) * 2005-03-25 2017-02-22 LG Electronics Inc. Eisspeicher eines Kühlschrankes
US7469553B2 (en) * 2005-11-21 2008-12-30 Whirlpool Corporation Tilt-out ice bin for a refrigerator
KR20070096374A (ko) 2006-03-23 2007-10-02 엘지전자 주식회사 냉장고용 제빙장치
KR100790545B1 (ko) 2006-03-23 2008-01-02 엘지전자 주식회사 냉장고용 제빙장치
KR100766118B1 (ko) 2006-03-23 2007-10-11 엘지전자 주식회사 냉장고용 제빙장치
ES2659051T3 (es) 2006-03-23 2018-03-13 Lg Electronics Inc. Dispositivo de fabricación de hielo para refrigerador
KR100819515B1 (ko) 2006-03-23 2008-04-07 엘지전자 주식회사 냉장고용 제빙장치

Patent Citations (3)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US6082130A (en) * 1998-12-28 2000-07-04 Whirlpool Corporation Ice delivery system for a refrigerator
US20050132739A1 (en) * 2003-12-22 2005-06-23 Sannasi Ashok K. Refrigerator and ice maker apparatus
US20080011010A1 (en) * 2006-07-13 2008-01-17 Maytag Corp. Icemaker assembly for a refrigerator

Non-Patent Citations (1)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Title
See also references of WO2007120015A1 *

Also Published As

Publication number Publication date
ES2940269T3 (es) 2023-05-04
AU2010219437A1 (en) 2010-10-07
CA2636198C (en) 2012-02-21
US20090064703A1 (en) 2009-03-12
EP3153798A1 (de) 2017-04-12
WO2007120015A1 (en) 2007-10-25
ES2690563T3 (es) 2018-11-21
BRPI0706748B1 (pt) 2021-04-27
EP3546856A1 (de) 2019-10-02
SI3828483T1 (sl) 2023-04-28
EP3290832A1 (de) 2018-03-07
EP2008041A4 (de) 2013-12-18
WO2007120015B1 (en) 2007-12-06
EP3290832B1 (de) 2023-06-21
EP2775237B1 (de) 2018-07-25
EP4177551A1 (de) 2023-05-10
PL3828483T3 (pl) 2023-05-08
CN101818980B (zh) 2014-05-07
AU2010219437B2 (en) 2011-06-02
AU2007239152B2 (en) 2010-10-28
US8677776B2 (en) 2014-03-25
CA2636198A1 (en) 2007-10-25
US8281610B2 (en) 2012-10-09
AU2007239152A1 (en) 2007-10-25
CN101818977A (zh) 2010-09-01
US20120272678A1 (en) 2012-11-01
BRPI0706748A2 (pt) 2011-04-05
EP2775237A1 (de) 2014-09-10
EP3153798B1 (de) 2018-07-25
EP2008041B1 (de) 2015-08-19
ES2553283T3 (es) 2015-12-07
EP3828483B1 (de) 2023-01-04
CN101818977B (zh) 2012-11-07
EP3828483A1 (de) 2021-06-02
ES2690487T3 (es) 2018-11-21
IL194194A (en) 2013-08-29
CN101818980A (zh) 2010-09-01

Similar Documents

Publication Publication Date Title
CA2636198C (en) Ice-making device for refrigerator
EP3372924B1 (de) Eisherstellungsvorrichtung für kühlschrank
KR100953973B1 (ko) 냉장고용 제빙장치
KR100953972B1 (ko) 냉장고용 제빙장치
KR101192340B1 (ko) 냉장고용 제빙장치

Legal Events

Date Code Title Description
PUAI Public reference made under article 153(3) epc to a published international application that has entered the european phase

Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: 0009012

17P Request for examination filed

Effective date: 20081103

AK Designated contracting states

Kind code of ref document: A1

Designated state(s): AT BE BG CH CY CZ DE DK EE ES FI FR GB GR HU IE IS IT LI LT LU LV MC MT NL PL PT RO SE SI SK TR

AX Request for extension of the european patent

Extension state: AL BA HR MK RS

DAX Request for extension of the european patent (deleted)
A4 Supplementary search report drawn up and despatched

Effective date: 20131114

RIC1 Information provided on ipc code assigned before grant

Ipc: F25C 1/14 20060101ALN20131108BHEP

Ipc: F25C 1/24 20060101AFI20131108BHEP

Ipc: F25C 5/00 20060101ALI20131108BHEP

Ipc: F25D 23/12 20060101ALI20131108BHEP

Ipc: F25C 5/04 20060101ALI20131108BHEP

17Q First examination report despatched

Effective date: 20140801

GRAP Despatch of communication of intention to grant a patent

Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: EPIDOSNIGR1

RIC1 Information provided on ipc code assigned before grant

Ipc: F25C 5/04 20060101ALI20150305BHEP

Ipc: F25D 23/04 20060101ALI20150305BHEP

Ipc: F25D 23/12 20060101ALI20150305BHEP

Ipc: F25C 1/24 20060101AFI20150305BHEP

Ipc: F25C 1/14 20060101ALN20150305BHEP

Ipc: F25C 5/00 20060101ALI20150305BHEP

INTG Intention to grant announced

Effective date: 20150407

GRAS Grant fee paid

Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: EPIDOSNIGR3

GRAA (expected) grant

Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: 0009210

AK Designated contracting states

Kind code of ref document: B1

Designated state(s): AT BE BG CH CY CZ DE DK EE ES FI FR GB GR HU IE IS IT LI LT LU LV MC MT NL PL PT RO SE SI SK TR

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: GB

Ref legal event code: FG4D

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: CH

Ref legal event code: EP

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: IE

Ref legal event code: FG4D

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: AT

Ref legal event code: REF

Ref document number: 744098

Country of ref document: AT

Kind code of ref document: T

Effective date: 20150915

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: DE

Ref legal event code: R096

Ref document number: 602007042667

Country of ref document: DE

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: ES

Ref legal event code: FG2A

Ref document number: 2553283

Country of ref document: ES

Kind code of ref document: T3

Effective date: 20151207

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: AT

Ref legal event code: MK05

Ref document number: 744098

Country of ref document: AT

Kind code of ref document: T

Effective date: 20150819

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: LT

Ref legal event code: MG4D

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: NL

Ref legal event code: MP

Effective date: 20150819

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: GR

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20151120

Ref country code: FI

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20150819

Ref country code: LV

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20150819

Ref country code: LT

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20150819

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: PT

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20151221

Ref country code: SE

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20150819

Ref country code: IS

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20151219

Ref country code: AT

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20150819

Ref country code: PL

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20150819

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: NL

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20150819

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: FR

Ref legal event code: PLFP

Year of fee payment: 10

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: EE

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20150819

Ref country code: DK

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20150819

Ref country code: CZ

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20150819

Ref country code: SK

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20150819

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: DE

Ref legal event code: R097

Ref document number: 602007042667

Country of ref document: DE

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: RO

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20150819

PLBE No opposition filed within time limit

Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: 0009261

STAA Information on the status of an ep patent application or granted ep patent

Free format text: STATUS: NO OPPOSITION FILED WITHIN TIME LIMIT

26N No opposition filed

Effective date: 20160520

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: BE

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES

Effective date: 20160430

Ref country code: SI

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20150819

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: CH

Ref legal event code: PL

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: LU

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20160418

Ref country code: BE

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20150819

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: IE

Ref legal event code: MM4A

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: LI

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES

Effective date: 20160430

Ref country code: CH

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES

Effective date: 20160430

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: FR

Ref legal event code: PLFP

Year of fee payment: 11

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: IE

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES

Effective date: 20160418

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: FR

Ref legal event code: PLFP

Year of fee payment: 12

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: HU

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT; INVALID AB INITIO

Effective date: 20070418

Ref country code: CY

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20150819

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: TR

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20150819

Ref country code: MC

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20150819

Ref country code: MT

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES

Effective date: 20160430

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: BG

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20150819

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: DE

Ref legal event code: R008

Ref document number: 602007042667

Country of ref document: DE

Ref country code: DE

Ref legal event code: R039

Ref document number: 602007042667

Country of ref document: DE

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: DE

Ref legal event code: R040

Ref document number: 602007042667

Country of ref document: DE

P01 Opt-out of the competence of the unified patent court (upc) registered

Effective date: 20230524

PGFP Annual fee paid to national office [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: GB

Payment date: 20240305

Year of fee payment: 18

PGFP Annual fee paid to national office [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: IT

Payment date: 20240307

Year of fee payment: 18

Ref country code: FR

Payment date: 20240306

Year of fee payment: 18

PGFP Annual fee paid to national office [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: DE

Payment date: 20240305

Year of fee payment: 18

PGFP Annual fee paid to national office [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: ES

Payment date: 20240513

Year of fee payment: 18